How to grow Flat-leaf Parsley in the UK
Petroselinum crispum
Flat-leaf Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) is a herb that grows well in UK gardens. Slow to germinate — pour boiling water on the row to speed things up. Biennial — bolts in year 2. This guide covers when and how to sow Flat-leaf Parsley, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Flat-leaf Parsley
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar Sow | Apr | May Plant | Jun Harvest | Jul Harvest | Aug Harvest | Sep Harvest | Oct Harvest | Nov Harvest | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Light, free-draining soil; many herbs resent winter wet
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Warm, sunny, sheltered spot (mints tolerate part shade)
- Sowing depth
- 1 cm
- Spacing
- 15 cm apart
- Sowing
- Sow Mar–Aug; slow to germinate — warmth and patience help
- Growing
- Keep moist; a biennial usually grown as annual
- Harvest & upkeep
- Pick outer stems; bolts in its second year
- Watch for
- Carrot root fly, aphids
Companion planting for Flat-leaf Parsley
Grows well with:
Add Flat-leaf Parsley to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Flat-leaf Parsley FAQs
When should I sow Flat-leaf Parsley in the UK?
In the UK, sow Flat-leaf Parsley in March. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What grows well with Flat-leaf Parsley?
Flat-leaf Parsley grows well alongside Asparagus, Beef Tomato, Cherry Tomato. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
How much sun does Flat-leaf Parsley need?
Flat-leaf Parsley prefers partial sun (3–6 hrs).
When is Flat-leaf Parsley ready to harvest?
Flat-leaf Parsley is typically ready to harvest in June, July, August, September, October, November in the UK.
Is Flat-leaf Parsley easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Slow to germinate — pour boiling water on the row to speed things up. Biennial — bolts in year 2.